Breaking the Chains: Churches and Communities Come Together to Confront Addiction

PROTECTED CONTENT

If you’re a current subscriber, log in below. If you would like to subscribe, please click the subscribe tab above.

Lost your password?

Username and Password Help

Please enter your email and we will send you a password reset link.

← Back

Bethel, MO – Addiction affects families, neighborhoods, and congregations in every part of our state. On Friday, September 5, 2025, Heartland Recovery is hosting Addiction and the Church, a free one-day seminar designed to equip pastors, ministry leaders, and anyone who wants to better understand addiction and be part of the healing process in their community.
The event will be held at Heartland Community Church, 6434 Shelby County Rd. 150, Bethel, MO 63434—just off Rt. E between Newark and Bethel.
The idea for the event came after a church engagement where a local pastor shared: “I want to help people who are struggling with addiction, but I don’t feel qualified.” That simple statement led to the creation of a practical seminar designed to offer encouragement, education, and biblical perspective to those wanting to make a difference.
The day will include sessions from pastors, counselors, and leaders with years of experience in recovery ministry:
Scott Breedlove & Kathy Nickerson – Family Recovery & the Power of Forgiveness
Brett Scharnhorst – Creating a Church Culture that Supports Long-Term Recovery
Emil Moore – Helping the Hurting Without Enabling
Scott Miller – Burnout in Ministry and Recovery Work
Dave Barton – Confronting Modern Addictions in the Church
Dave Evans – Addiction & Trauma: Connecting the Dots
Doors open at 8:15am with check-in and coffee. Sessions begin at 9:00am and end at 3:45pm. A complimentary lunch is provided on-site, and there will be a closing Q&A panel. There is no charge for the event, but registration is due by August 29 at www.hlandrecovery.org or by calling 573-633-5603.
Whether you’re a pastor, ministry volunteer, nonprofit leader, or simply someone with a heart to help the hurting, this event is designed to give you a solid foundation in pointing people toward lasting hope in Christ. Together, we can become people who meet the hurting with truth, compassion, and hope.